When you
are first diagnosed
: Some experts recommend, and some patients prefer, seeing an endocrinologist at least once when you're first diagnosed with hypothyroidism to review your condition, your test results and your treatment plan.
Is hypothyroidism considered an endocrine disorder?
Hypothyroidism is
a common endocrine disorder resulting from deficiency of thyroid hormone
. In the United States and other areas of adequate iodine intake, autoimmune thyroid disease (Hashimoto disease) is the most common cause of hypothyroidism; worldwide, iodine deficiency remains the foremost cause.
Who should I see for my hypothyroidism?
But there are situations in which you may need to have an
endocrinologist
, a doctor who specializes in the endocrine system, oversee your care. An endocrinologist is particularly knowledgeable about the function of the thyroid gland and the body's other hormone-secreting glands.
Why would you need to see an endocrinologist?
Endocrinologists are qualified to diagnose and treat conditions like
diabetes, thyroid diseases, infertility
, growth issues, metabolic disorders, osteoporosis, some cancers, and disorders in the hormone-producing adrenal glands and pituitary glands.
Is it best to see an endocrinologist for hypothyroidism?
When you
are first diagnosed
: Some experts recommend, and some patients prefer, seeing an endocrinologist at least once when you're first diagnosed with hypothyroidism to review your condition, your test results and your treatment plan.
What tests will an endocrinologist do for thyroid?
If it's especially difficult to determine what's causing your hypothyroidism, your endocrinologist might order follow-up tests to rule out other diseases that could be affect the production of thyroid hormone. These diagnostic tests could include an
ultrasound, MRI, CT scan, or a needle biopsy
.
How does a doctor diagnose hypothyroidism?
A blood test measuring your hormone levels is the only accurate way to find out whether there's a problem. The test, called a
thyroid function test
, looks at levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroxine (T4) in the blood. Doctors may refer to this as “free” T4 (FT4).
Do you have hypothyroidism look at your hands?
Signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism can show up in the hands and nails. Hypothyroidism can cause dermatologic findings such as nail infection,
vertical white ridges on the nails
, nail splitting, brittle nails, slow nail growth, and nails lifting up.
What qualifies as hypothyroidism?
Overview. Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) is
a condition in which your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough of certain crucial hormones
. Hypothyroidism may not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages.
What should someone with hypothyroidism eat?
People with hypothyroidism should aim to eat a
diet based on vegetables, fruits, and lean meats
. These are low in calories and very filling, which may help prevent weight gain.
When should you be referred to an endocrinologist?
When you are facing a diagnosis of a hormonal condition, like diabetes or thyroid disease
, your doctor may suggest you see an endocrinologist. You may be wondering why you need to see a specialist instead of simply sticking with your primary doctor.
How do I know if my thyroid levels are off?
- Altered heart rate.
- Weight and appetite fluctuations.
- Hair loss.
- Skin changes.
- Fatigue and weakness.
- Heat or cold intolerance.
- Bowel problems.
- Eye issues.
What tests does an endocrinologist do?
Your endocrinologist may request imaging exams to look at your endocrine system function.
Thyroid ultrasound imaging
may be used to look at your thyroid's structure. A fine-needle aspiration can help rule out cancer in a thyroid nodule. A thyroid scan shows the size, shape and function of the thyroid gland.
What kind of doctor do you see for hormone imbalance?
An endocrinologist
can diagnose and treat hormone problems and the complications that arise from them. Hormones regulate metabolism, respiration, growth, reproduction, sensory perception, and movement. Hormone imbalances are the underlying reason for a wide range of medical conditions.
What are some common endocrine disorders?
- Type 1 Diabetes.
- Addison's Disease.
- Cushing's Syndrome.
- Graves' Disease.
- Hashimoto's Thyroiditis.
